Madison Street teacher honored
The “Thank a Teacher” program recognizes inspiring actions, supportive words, creative lessons or overall positive impact.
Back row, from left, Stephanie Prisciandaro, Nancy Thrower, Mel Poole, Lori Conrad, Alan Keesee, Allison Campbell, Sarah James and Eric Cummings; front, from left, Cheri Potter, Kristi Gibbs, Jennifer Brown and Jennifer Hatchett. [Photo courtesy HCA Florida Healthcare]
HCA Florida Ocala Hospital and HCA Florida West Marion Hospital, with the Public Education Foundation of Marion County, have announced that Kristi Gibbs of the Madison Street Academy of Visual and Performing Arts is the latest recipient of the “Thank a Teacher” award.
Gibbs, a second-grade teacher, was selected from a pool of nominees compiled and judged by previous winners of the Golden Apple Award, a prestigious honor given to public school teachers in Marion County. Her nomination form noted that she helps her students develop into quality people as well as high-achieving students.
HCA Florida Ocala Hospital CEO Alan Keesee recognized Gibbs during an event at the school on Jan. 27, with Marion County School Board members, PEFMC Executive Director Meghan Magamoll and other school officials in attendance.
“HCA Florida Healthcare gladly recognizes dedicated educators like Kristi because they work diligently to prepare our community’s children to succeed in an increasingly complex and challenging world. The contributions of teachers like her are critical to providing our students a sound foundation for the future,” Keesee said in a news release.
“This initiative, thanks to HCA Florida Healthcare, is not just about recognizing individual teachers but also about fostering a sense of community. It’s our chance to come together, celebrate and say a collective ‘Thank you’ to the educators who shape our world,” Magamoll stated.
Throughout the 2024-25 school year, students, families and staff members are encouraged to share stories about a teacher’s inspiring actions, supportive words, creative lessons or overall positive impact. The teachers who are honored receive $250 and an email containing the messages.
To learn more and nominate a teacher, go to pefmc.org/thank-a-teacher
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